I used DEs before straights, and spent a lot of money on them. I could have saved money had I went directly to straights. Not that I don't love my DEs because I do...even more than straights. Just thought I'd mention the cost factor. You can keep your current razor for backup while you learn the straight. DEs have their own learning curve, and I wouldn't advise trying to learn straight shaving and DE shaving at the same time. Good luck.